Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, PA, is known for its strong and varied academic programs. In addition, Lehigh’s admissions team maintains high expectations for their applicants, including with regard to standardized testing scores. This article dives into the details of Lehigh ACT scores and requirements. Be sure to check out our other article that discusses Lehigh’s SAT stats and requirements!
What is the average ACT score at Lehigh?
In keeping with its reputation for academic excellence, Lehigh’s average composite ACT score falls around a 32, out of the maximum possible 36 points. This is significantly higher than the national average of about 21. Meanwhile, the 25th percentile score for the incoming class is 30, and the 75th percentile is a composite score of 33.
These statistics mean that the lowest 25% of scorers achieved a 30 or below, and the highest 25% of scorers achieved a 33 or above. These numbers demonstrate the high standards Lehigh holds for its students. However, the range also shows that there is no single number that applicants must achieve for admission.
What is the average ACT English score at Lehigh?
The ACT composite score is the average of the scores a student achieves on each of the four test sections: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Here, we will break down the Lehigh ACT English and Math score statistics.
The average ACT English score at Lehigh for the enrolled class is 33. Furthermore, the 25th and 75th percentiles sit at 30 and 35, respectively. Overall, Lehigh students perform very well on the English section of the ACT, with the majority achieving high scores.
Note that while 25% of accepted students scored a 30 or below on the ACT English section, another 25% of admits to Lehigh scored a 35 or above. There are likely quite a few perfect scorers in the top quartile of students admitted to Lehigh. Nevertheless, a perfect score is not a prerequisite for admission.
What is the average ACT Math score at Lehigh?
The average ACT Math score at Lehigh falls between the 25th and 75th percentiles of 28 and 33. In addition, an ACT Math score of 30 would place you in the 50th percentile of scorers at Lehigh. This may be a narrow range of scores, but there is no minimum score required for admission to Lehigh.
While these scores are a bit lower than the English section scores, they are still quite high. However, as with the other sections, there is no one particular benchmark that applicants must meet. Now, let’s look at the specific Lehigh ACT requirements.
What are Lehigh’s ACT requirements?
For the academic years 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and 2023-2024, Lehigh will maintain their test-optional policy. This means that applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, although they can choose to submit scores. This policy will be evaluated continuously and extended as necessary, so it is important to stay updated and informed.
Applicants may self-report their SAT scores via the Common Application, Coalition Application, or email. However, if an applicant is admitted and chooses to enroll, official scores must be submitted directly from the College Board or the ACT before the first day of classes for the enrolling semester. Discrepancies in scores of any kind may lead to a reversal of admission.
Lehigh does not require the essay portion of the SAT. SAT Subject Tests are also not required, though college credit may be awarded for certain scores. Read more about Lehigh’s college credit policies here.
What percent of Lehigh applicants submit the ACT?
For the recent admissions cycle, 37% of admitted applicants submitted SAT scores, while 13% submitted ACT scores. On the other hand, the remaining approximate 50% did not submit standardized test scores.
From these statistics, we can see that there is no advantage to taking one test over the other. For each applicant, the choice should be based on their individual preference and strengths. In addition, going test-optional is the most popular choice, evidencing that Lehigh’s admissions committee provides applications with holistic reviews that do not depend solely on standardized test scores.
Should I go test-optional?
Submitting a high SAT or ACT score can enhance an applicant’s chances for admission to Lehigh. It is recommended that students with the means to do so take the SAT or ACT at least once.
While a competitive score can strengthen an application, while poor scores can be omitted without penalty. Comparing your scores to Lehigh’s averages can help decide whether to submit them. Given that Lehigh’s 25th percentile composite SAT score is a 1340, scores above this benchmark are likely competitive and worth submitting.
Does Lehigh superscore the ACT?
Lehigh does superscore the SAT. In other words, the admissions officers will consider the highest section scores across multiple test dates. They also accept scores from both the current and old versions of the SAT but do not combine sections across different versions. The College Board Score Choice option allows students to select which test dates to submit. Read more about Lehigh’s admissions requirements here.
What’s a good ACT score for Lehigh?
Lehigh does not have specific ACT score requirements or cutoffs, and they do not admit students solely based on their standardized test scores. However, scores within or above the 25th to 75th percentile ranges are a good goal to strive for. Aiming for a composite score around 32 or higher would help your application become more competitive, as 32 is the 50th percentile composite score.
The chart below details the percentile scores at Lehigh. A score within their middle 50% range, 30 to 33, would position your application well in the admissions process. That said, a good score for Lehigh can look different depending on your background and the context of your other application materials. Lehigh’s admissions officers consider many factors when determining whether to admit students.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 30 | 32 | 33 |
| English | 30 | 33 | 35 |
| Math | 30 | 31 | 33 |
Can I get into Lehigh with a low ACT?
Admission to Lehigh with a low SAT score is possible, especially considering their holistic review process. A low score, relative to Lehigh’s averages, can be offset by strong academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and compelling personal statements.
In other words, Lehigh values the overall profile of an applicant, including leadership, community service, and other unique attributes. While the lower quartile SAT score at Lehigh is 1340, applicants with scores below this range can still gain admission if they demonstrate strong academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
For more information on the admissions process, visit the Applying to Lehigh webpage.
When should I take the ACT for Lehigh?
The spring of junior year in high school is often referred to as an ideal time to take standardized tests for college admissions. Note that November 1 is the deadline for Early Decision I at Lehigh. January 1 is the deadline for Early Decision II and Regular Decision.
Taking the test well before the deadline also provides time for retakes if necessary. Your ACT score may also guide your college list or your decision whether or not to go test-optional for certain schools.
What is Lehigh’s ACT code?
Lehigh’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 3612.
While Lehigh no longer requires applicants to submit ACT or SAT test scores, the standards for those who do choose to submit scores are still quite high. Choosing not to take the exams or to omit scores from an application will not harm an applicant, but sending a good score can only help. Ultimately, the decision of whether to take and submit exam scores is a personal decision to be evaluated in the context of an applicant’s strengths, goals, and priorities. If you are considering the SAT instead, be sure to check out our Lehigh SAT Breakdown!
